The Miss Georgia pageant searches for women who are not simply beauty queens but people of character and representatives of service. 

UWG student Jesimina Walker, studying political science, began her expedition in tiaras as a toddler. She looked towards icons such as Miss America and Miss Universe as glittering examples of a future she hoped to secure. She has taken her first steps after being crowned Miss Carroll County in Miss Georgia’s class of 2024.

Walker dedicates her crown to the ideals of scholarship, service, success and style. While she carried the torch of success through earning scholarships, Walker’s ultimate goal as Miss Carroll County was to impact at least one person. 

“I’ve been able to travel to elementary schools in our area and pour into students and remind them of their importance and ability to make a difference in the world,” explained Walker. “I believe that success as Miss Carroll County comes in the form of connecting with people and representing my home as graciously as possible.”

Miss West Georgia Lexi Atkins, a UWG student studying elementary education, holds similar sentiments regarding strength through service as she perceives her title to embody genuineness, relatability, dedication and a heart for service. She exemplifies these characteristics through her involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation by establishing a collaboration with the nonprofit. 

“I have volunteered many hours to Make-A-Wish,” said Atkins. “I created ‘Chords for Courage,’ which I have combined with Make-A-Wish to organize a series of benefit concerts to raise funds for this amazing cause through the timeless magic of music.”

Walker also pursued community service initiatives through her partnership with nonprofits Gray Matters and CURE Childhood Cancer. Gray Matters focuses on supporting children battling brain cancer, while CURE focuses on providing these families with toiletry kits and meals to alleviate financial pressures.

“Being Miss Carroll County is an opportunity of a lifetime,” said Walker. “I’ve lived in Carroll County my whole life. When a community has poured into you, it’s important to pour back into it.”

Both Atkins and Walker embody UWG’s dedication to fostering a vibrant community where academic excellence and community engagement are paramount.

“Being Miss West Georgia is not just about wearing a crown or holding a title,” said Atkins. “It's about inspiring others to pursue their dreams and positively impacting our communities. Miss West Georgia represents the diversity and strength of Georgia’s people.”

Walker shares these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections.  

“I’ve learned that being a titleholder is not about you or simply picking out the right wardrobe but about the relationships you build with others,” reflected Walker. “Being Miss Carroll County has taken me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to build those relationships with my community that will last beyond my reign.”